Lincoln Riley's USC receive commitment of nation's No. 1 CB to the Class of 2026

Four-star cornerback RJ Sermons committed to USC's 2026 class on Friday. The standout from Rancho Cucamonga High School in California chose Lincoln Riley's program over Alabama, Oregon, Georgia, Notre Dame and Washington, among others.

"I am super excited," Sermons told 247Sports. "The staff was pumped up and coach Lincoln Riley made it clear how happy he was to have me on board with them."

The 6-foot, 180-pound Sermons is the No. 1 cornerback in the 2025 class, the No. 11 prospect in the nation and the No. 3 recruit in California, as per On3.

Sermons' commitment continues a family legacy at USC, as his father, Rodney Sermons, played running back for the school in the mid-1990s. Growing up surrounded by the program, RJ had a firsthand look at USC’s storied history, including players like Reggie Bush and Matt Leinart.

RJ Sermons is a dynamic player with the athleticism to excel as a wide corner or nickel defender. He also thrives on special teams, where his speed and vision make him a dangerous punt and kick returner. He also competes in track and boasts personal bests of 10.48 seconds in the 100-meter dash and 21.34 seconds over 200 meters.

RJ Sermons shares the reasons behind his USC commitment

RJ Sermons attended USC’s thrilling 33-30 overtime loss to Penn State on Oct. 12, followed by its 27-20 victory over Nebraska on Nov. 16. He later returned for an official visit on Nov. 27 and witnessed the Trojans' 49-35 loss to Notre Dame on Nov. 30.

Despite the mixed on-field results, Sermons felt USC offered the perfect blend of opportunities for him.

“I like the authenticity from everybody on the staff and everybody in the building," Sermons told On3. "They kept it real the whole time and made it known that I am a priority to them. The opportunities that I have there on and off the field and in the classroom are great.”

A key figure in Sermons’ recruitment was USC defensive back coach Doug Belk.

“Coach Belk, I really like him,” Sermons said. “He has a great track record of previous defensive backs and just previous greatness. And he’s a great person. Him and my dad kind of go back a little bit."

With RJ Sermons' commitment, USC's 2026 class is up to seven players, ranking No. 2 in the nation.